Sony Xperia Arc S ROM ported to Galaxy Nexus

When considering Android modders and the projects they choose to devote themselves to, the question “Why?” often arises. And the answer, almost universally, is “why not?” Such is the case with GNexusTimeScape, a new ROM for the Galaxy Nexus from noted XDA member koaaN. The custom ROM takes the interface, apps and widgets from the Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S – an older, smaller and considerably weaker phone – and puts them front and center on the Galaxy Nexus.

It’s an interesting if not overly utilitarian project – those who love to add HTC’s Sense, Samsung’s TouchWiz or Motorola’s Blur UIs to phones that were never meant to run them should get a kick out of it. If you’ve already rooted your device and flashed a custom recovery, you know the drill: just download the ZIP file from the thread and flash it in ClockworkMod. Sony’s custom launcher, media apps and interface will all work on your Galaxy Nexus, and it’s running Android 4.0.3, so you won’t lose any features including access to Google apps.

Currently most of the major functions are working, with the exception of NFC and video recording and playback. The release is only candidate version 1.1, so if you’re intrigued, you might want to wait for a few more updates. The developer doesn’t specify whether GSM or LTE versions of the Galaxy Nexus are supported, but since he’s from Sweden, it’s probably safe to assume that Verizon users need not apply. Happy flashing, and absolutely, positively, definitely make a backup for this one.